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FAQ About Monument Valley

FAQ About Monument Valley

Find the answers to the most frequently asked questions about Monument Valley National Monument

Q:Where is Monument Valley?

A:Monument Valley is located on the southern border of Utah with northern Arizona. The valley lies within the range of the Navajo Nation Reservation, and is accessible from U.S. Highway 163.

Q:What should I see when I visit Monument Valley?

A:The most scenic locations are within Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park, a Navajo Nation equivalent to a national park. Monument Valley is part of the Grand Circle, which includes the Grand Canyon, Mesa Verde, Bryce Canyon National Park, Zion Canyon National Park, Capitol Reef, Natural Bridges, Hovenweep, Arches National Monument, and many other attractions. The best way to start your visit to Monument Valley would be to take a tour. Guided tours of the park and Mystery Valley (a part of Monument Valley where visitors cannot go without a guide) are available for a fee.

Q:When is the best time to visit Monument Valley?

A:Monument Valley is accessible to visitors year round. Because of the location of the Valley the weather conditions range from cool in the winter to hot in the summer. The time of year to visit depends on what conditions most suit the visitor.

Q:Is biking allowed in the Valley?

A:Bicycling is permitted on the 17-mile loop road into the park, but travelers share the dusty dirt track with motor vehicles. The same holds true for U.S. 163, the paved highway that leads through Monument Valley. In theory, off-road biking is permitted with a guide, but this aspect of recreational tourism has yet to develop. Bottom line: Mountain-bike enthusiasts should head up to the near by slick-rock country of Moab, Utah.

Q:What are the Monument Valley Fees?

A:Monument Valley is a Navajo Tribal park and charges a fee for access to the loop road through the valley. National Park passes will not be accepted. Additionally individuals wishing to hike in the valley or to visit sites not on the loop road must hire a Navajo guide for an additional fee.

Entry Fees

General Admission: $10.00 per person (Ages 9 and under free)

Per vehicle fee: $20.00, up to four people

National Parks and Golden Eagle Passes are not accepted.

Visitor Center Hours:

Peak Season (May 1 - Sept 30) 6:00 am - 8:00 pm, 7 Days a week

Off Season (Oct 1 - Apr 30) 8:00 am - 5:00 pm, 7 Days a week

Scenic Drive Hours:

Peak Season (May 1-Sept 30) 6:00 am - 8:30 pm

Off Season (Oct 1 - Apr 30) 8:00 am - 4:30 pm

Q:What is the recommended stay duration?

A:Minimalist (2 Days)

Driving/Sightseeing: ½ day

Hiking/Exploring: 1 day

Activities/Tours/Special Programs: ½ day

Adventurist (3-4 Days)

Driving/Sightseeing: 1-2 day

Hiking/Exploring: 1 day

Activities/Tours/Special Programs: 1 day

Notes: There’s a number of scenic drives available in the Monument Valley area, but two of the most popular drives that will provide the best views of the Monuments include the Monument Valley to Bluff Scenic Byway, a 45-mile road that moves through the Navajo Indian Reservation taking you past many beautiful rock formations. There is also an unpaved 17-mile road that will get you right up close to some of the most popular highlights of Monument Valley, including John Ford’s Point, East and West Mitten Buttes, Artist’s Point, Totem Pole, The Three Sisters, and Elephant’s Butte. Although the road is a mix of gravel and dirt, most cars should be able to access it without much trouble, however it is not recommended for RV’s or low clearance vehicles. The route can be completed in about an hour, but you should allow at least half a day for the trip allowing for time to pause and enjoy the scenery and attractions. Many recreational opportunities exist in the area as well from jeep and horseback tours to guided hikes and scenic hot-air balloon flights.